"Gunsmoke" is a classic American television Western series that aired from 1955 to 1975 and holds the record for the longest-running live-action scripted television series. Here are some shocking facts about "Gunsmoke" that you may not be aware of:

Radio Origins:
 

Before becoming a television series, "Gunsmoke" originated as a radio show in 1952. The radio version starred William Conrad as Matt Dillon, the character later played by James Arness in the TV series.

Casting Changes:
James Arness played the iconic role of Marshal Matt Dillon throughout the entire television run. However, the actor who initially played Dillon on the radio, William Conrad, did not make the transition to television. The role was recast with Arness.

Miss Kitty's Brothel Background:
The character Miss Kitty, played by Amanda Blake, was the owner of the Long Branch Saloon. While the show never explicitly mentioned it due to network restrictions, it was strongly implied that Kitty ran a brothel, adding a layer of complexity to her character.

Dennis Weaver's Unusual Departure:
Dennis Weaver, who portrayed Chester Goode, left the series in 1964. His character was written out by having Chester leave Dodge City to get married. Weaver's departure was reportedly due to creative differences and his desire to pursue other opportunities.

James Arness's Injury:
James Arness suffered a leg injury during his military service in World War II, which resulted in a distinctive way of walking. The injury and the unique walk became a trademark feature of his portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon.

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From the start of the series until the early ’70s, the same gunfight between Matt Dillon and another gunman opened the show. The show’s intro only changed once the anti-violence politics of the 1970s were so strong that showing a gunfight on TV every week became unsustainable.

Record-Breaking Run:
"Gunsmoke" holds the record for the longest continuous primetime run of any scripted television series in U.S. history. It ran for 20 seasons and a total of 635 episodes.

Doc Adams's Actor Change:
Milburn Stone played the role of Doc Adams, the town's physician, from the beginning of the series until his death in 1980. After Stone's passing, the character of Doc was written out, and the show didn't directly replace him with another town doctor.

James Arness's Cameo in the TV Movie:
After "Gunsmoke" ended its original run, James Arness reprised his role as Matt Dillon in a television movie titled "Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge" (1987). The movie was a reunion of sorts for fans of the original series.

Inspiration for "Festus":
The character Festus Haggen, portrayed by Ken Curtis, was initially a one-shot character but became a fan favorite. The character was reportedly inspired by a man Curtis met in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Influence on Western Genre:
"Gunsmoke" was not only a successful series but also played a crucial role in shaping the Western genre on television. It set the standard for other Western shows that followed and contributed to the popularity of the genre during its heyday.

"Gunsmoke" remains a significant part of television history, known for its longevity, compelling characters, and impact on the Western genre. The show's shocking and behind-the-scenes facts add layers to its legacy in the realm of classic television.